Novak Djokovic is being showered with praise for his classy and gracious speech after losing the Australian Open final to Carlos Alcaraz on Sunday night. But his actions immediately after the final point of the match were just as good.
Djokovic would have been heartbroken after going down in four sets to the World No.1, who became the youngest man ever to achieve the career grand slam. Djokovic sprayed a forehand long and wide on break point to hand Alcaraz his first Australian Open title.
Novak Djokovic put his heartbreak aside in a classy act for Carlos Alcaraz. Image: Australian Open/AAP
The 24-time grand slam champ appeared devastated when his ball was called out, however the devastation only lasted mere seconds. He put it all aside to pay his respects to Alcaraz in an act of sheer class.
Djokovic broke with tradition by hopping over the net and embracing Alcaraz on his side of the court, rather than waiting at the net. It’s an ‘unwritten rule’ in tennis that players should meet at the net after a match, but Djokovic went against the grain.
Novak Djokovic broke with tradition and met Carlos Alcaraz on his side of the court.
(AFP via Getty Images)
Alcaraz had immediately dropped to the court to celebrate his triumph, so instead of waiting at the net Djokovic hopped over and headed towards his triumphant rival. Alcaraz appeared slightly taken aback when he saw Djokovic on his side of the court, but Djokovic immediately broke into a massive smile as he congratulated the 22-year-old.
Djokovic wrapped his arms around Alcaraz and offered some kind words, before stepping out of the spotlight so Alcaraz could have his moment. It was absolute class from Djokovic and not something his critics would have expected to see.
Novak Djokovic lavishes Carlos Alcaraz with praise
Djokovic then heaped praise on Alcaraz in his runner-up speech, and didn’t show any of the heartbreak he would have been feeling. “The results are a testament to his already stellar career,” the Serbian legend said in his press conference.
“Can’t think of any superlatives about him. He deserves every bit of praise he gets. He’s a very nice young man. Good values. Nice family. Already a legendary tennis player that made a huge mark in the history books of tennis, with only 22 years of age.”
Djokovic also joked on-court: “You’re so young, like myself, so I’m sure we’ll be seeing each other many more times in the next 10 years. Not!”